Stores Open on Christmas Day in Australia – 25 December
Merry Christmas! Today, Thursday 25 December 2025, is a public holiday across Australia, and most major retailers are giving staff the day off to celebrate with loved ones. Large supermarket chains and shopping centres are closed nationwide, but don’t worry — a few essential services and independent stores remain open for last-minute needs like milk, snacks, fuel, or emergency items.
Here’s the latest breakdown based on current trading policies:
Major Supermarkets: Fully Closed Today
The big three observe a complete shutdown on Christmas Day:
- Coles — All stores closed across every state and territory.
- Woolworths — All stores closed nationwide.
- Aldi — All stores closed everywhere.
Stock up early on Christmas Eve (24 December) when most locations extend hours — that’s your last big chance for full grocery runs!
What’s Still Open? Focus on Essentials
Options are limited to necessities and independents. Here’s what you can usually find open:
- Convenience stores & petrol stations — Many 7-Eleven, BP, Shell, and Caltex outlets operate (often 24/7 or extended hours) for milk, ice, snacks, batteries, tobacco, and fuel. These are your most reliable go-to for quick essentials.
- Independent grocers — Some IGA, Foodworks, or SPAR stores open with reduced hours (typically mornings to early afternoon or limited windows like 8am–2pm/6pm). As independently owned, hours vary widely — always check your local store via phone, their website, or the IGA store locator.
- Pharmacies — Select Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, or local independents may open for prescriptions, pain relief, and medical supplies (hours often short, e.g., 9am–5pm or less). Contact your nearest one ahead of time.
- Fast food & takeaways — Limited locations of McDonald’s, Hungry Jack’s, KFC, Domino’s (over 100 stores nationwide in some years), Subway, and others may trade, especially in tourist-heavy or high-traffic areas. Use apps or websites to locate open spots.
- Bottle shops — Most Dan Murphy’s, BWS, and Liquorland are closed, though rare exceptions exist in certain states like Victoria or Tasmania.
Major shopping centres (Westfield, etc.), Kmart, Big W, Target, and Bunnings are all closed today.
Quick Tips for Today’s Shoppers
- Plan ahead — Do your main shopping by Christmas Eve evening.
- Check locally — Use store apps, websites, or call ahead — trading hours can differ even within the same chain.
- State differences — South Australia and the Northern Territory tend to have stricter rules overall.
- Stay safe — Enjoy the day with family, and drive carefully if you’re out grabbing essentials!
Looking Forward: Boxing Day Sales (26 December)
The big deals start tomorrow! Most major stores reopen (with some SA metropolitan exceptions for Coles/Woolworths), shopping centres swing open, and extended hours often run until 9pm. Perfect timing for post-Christmas bargains.
